Kevin Love Continues To Downplay The Notion Of Leaving Cleveland Cavaliers

USA Today

Not since Dwight Howard back in 2012 has any player in the NBA be surrounded by so much speculation. After six years with one of the worst franchises in the league, Love was granted his wish by being traded by the Minnesota Timberwolves. Love couldn’t have gone to a better situation by landing with the Cleveland Cavaliers, but things simply haven’t worked out as planned.

Much like Dwight did in the summer of 2013, after one season with the Los Angeles Lakers, Love is expected to leave the Cavaliers in free agency this summer. Although it seems to be the worst kept secret in the league, Love continues to downplay any notion that he’ll leave the team as a free agent come July 1, via ESPN’s Dave McMenamin:

Kevin Love on next season: "I truly expect to be suiting up for Game 1." For the Cavs? Love: "Yes, sir."

— Dave McMenamin (@mcten) May 31, 2015

Of course, what is Love supposed to say when asked a question about his future. The Cavaliers are in the NBA Finals and another distraction is the last thing the team needs before going up against arguably the best squad in the NBA in the Golden State Warriors.

Although Love once again alludes to opting in to the final year of his deal with the Cavaliers, it seems as though the momentum continues to push him to opt out and sign elsewhere this summer. The Lakers and Boston Celtics will be his two biggest suitors in free agency with both teams ready to bring him in with a max contract. The New York Knicks might also be a team to watch with Phil Jackson potentially targeting the veteran forward when the time comes.